FX.co ★ France Business Climate Remains Gloomy

France's business climate indicator edged down to 96 in April 2025, following a slight decline from 97 the previous month, continuing to lag behind its long-term average of 100. Sentiment saw a minor decrease among constructors (from 98 to 97) and a more notable decline among retailers (from 100 to 95), primarily influenced by diminished business outlooks and order intentions. Conversely, there was an uptick in confidence within the manufacturing sector (rising from 96 to 99) and in services (from 97 to 98). At the same time, the employment climate indicator increased to 97, albeit still below its long-term average for the eleventh consecutive month. This improvement was largely attributed to an enhanced future workforce balance within services, notably including temporary employment agencies.